Police seek driver who fatally struck man crossing Highway 50

LEE'S SUMMIT, MO (KCTV) -

Police are asking for the public's help in locating a hit-and-run driver who fatally struck a man crossing Highway 50 in Lee's Summit on Thursday night.

Edward "Eddie" Moody, 34, of Lee's Summit was trying to cross the eastbound lanes from north to south when he was hit by a sedan. The driver did not stop and continued traveling east on Highway 50, Lee's Summit police say.

This occurred about 8 p.m. near the intersection of Highway 291.

Katie Barker said her 4-year-old son is confused by his father's death.

"My son asked if he could build a rocket ship to get his Dad from heaven and bring him back," Barker said.

A tearful Barker said Moody was a loving father who did the best for his son. He was going from his work to her home where he planned to spend time with his son. She said they took the boy to the park every day.

She pleaded for the driver to come forward because she said she and Moody's loved ones need answers.

"I don't know why and I don't know how and those questions I'm going to have to answer to a 4-year-old boy or when he's in his 20s," Barker said. "I don't understand how anyone cannot have a heart and just leave. It doesn't makes sense."

Police are seeking a four-door vehicle that witnesses described as boxy. Debris left at the scene indicates the vehicle was a 2000-2005 Chevrolet Malibu, police say.

The vehicle will have damage on the front left side.

"We believe based on the damage found and the way he was struck that it's nearly impossible not to know you struck somebody in the roadway," said Lee's Summit Police Sgt. Chris Depue.

If you have any information, call the Lee's Summit Police Department at 816-969-1752.

Barker said she is trying to do everything she can to get justice for her son and that included making a public plea on an emotionally difficult day.

"If I didn't do this, my son wouldn't know I did everything I could to get his Dad the justice he deserves," she said.